Architecture by Sam Teoh Architects

An unexpected site characteristic was discovered and exploited in the design of this home, providing the clients with something extra they could enjoy.

Author(s): Scoop

COTTESLOE

After studies on this 588sqm lot, with a fall of 3.5 metres from front to back, it was discovered there were unexpected views to the east from elevated positions.

The outlook extended over the trees to invite the morning sun, and also provided protection from prevailing wind, making the east side ideal for the outdoor living space. This area became the focus of the internal-living floor plan.

The clients’ brief called for a family home with an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area, two living spaces, a pool, and a garden area for young kids. They wanted a light and bright contemporary home with a relaxed feel, and for the house to have street presence.

Photography Andrew Pritchard Photography

Working with the fall of the land, Sam Teoh Architects proposed a two-storey house, which appeared single-storey from the street, with a second, lower level beneath. An elevated bridge leading directly to the front door delivers the guest into the middle of the house without internal passages. The slightly elevated upper level gives a better aspect and the required street presence.

Rational planning dictated the division of the two levels into separate zones – living, outdoor, sleeping, and service and transitional zones. This orientation would create better flow and efficient running of services.

The upper level has the open-plan family living area, a large room with north and east aspects overlooking the pool/garden and treetops beyond. The adjacent alfresco balcony has a similar outlook.

The master bedroom is located to the west, away from the general living area. Together with the study, it forms the parents’ zone.

Stairs behind a floating wall lead to the lower level containing the children’s bedrooms, another living area, and services. The children’s bedrooms have direct access to private courtyards.

The lower living area opens to the alfresco, seamlessly expanding to a large entertainment area when the concertina doors are opened. An attractive stonewall bench seat defines the extremities of this indoor/outdoor room, while the pool and garden complete the exterior entertainment area.